Don’t repeat mistake, Udit Raj urges Muslim voters as AIMIM enters Bihar poll fray

New Delhi: With the Bihar Assembly elections approaching, AIMIM’s decision to contest four seats in the Mithilanchal region has drawn sharp responses from rival parties. Congress leader Udit Raj on Wednesday urged Muslim voters not to split their votes, warning that backing AIMIM would be a “mistake”.

“I appeal to Muslim voters, a mistake was made last time, and because of that, they had to suffer for five years and endure great hardship. This time, do not repeat that mistake. Do not let your vote get divided,” Raj told IANS.

His remarks followed AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s announcement that the party would field candidates from Jale, Bisfi, Keoti and Darbhanga town constituencies. AIMIM, which secured five seats in the Seemanchal region in the previous Assembly polls, is now seeking to expand its presence in Bihar.

Congress MP Manoj Kumar dismissed concerns about AIMIM’s influence, saying, “They are free to contest wherever they want, four seats or even 50. Everyone has the freedom to participate in a democracy. But the people of Bihar will not be confused this time.”

Owaisi made the declaration during a rally at Kumrauli in Darbhanga’s Jale constituency on October 6, signalling the party’s intent to strengthen its foothold beyond Seemanchal.

Political observers have noted that AIMIM’s entry into Mithilanchal could potentially divide opposition votes, particularly among Muslim voters, a constituency traditionally aligned with the INDIA bloc led by the RJD and Congress.

The elections for Bihar’s 243-member Assembly will be held in two phases, on November 6 and 11, with results to be declared on November 14.